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Jaylen Samuels’ versatility key to role with Pittsburgh Steelers

By Daryl Jaquette

RALEIGH, NC - NOVEMBER 25: Jaylen Samuels #1 of the North Carolina State Wolfpack scores the game-clinching touchdown late in the fourth quarter of their game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Carter Finley Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina State won 33-21. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
RALEIGH, NC - NOVEMBER 25: Jaylen Samuels #1 of the North Carolina State Wolfpack scores the game-clinching touchdown late in the fourth quarter of their game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Carter Finley Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina State won 33-21. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Jaylen Samuels is likely to make the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, but could earn an extended role in his rookie year.

Steelers rookie Jaylen Samuels is an explosive player. The type of player offensive coordinators drool over. He can be used in multiple formations. He also forces opposing defenses to scheme for him. Samuels played TE, FB, RB and WR at North Carolina State.

As his Wolfpack statistics demonstrate, Samuels is a threat in both the passing and rushing attacks: 201 receptions for 1,851 yards and 19 TDs; and 182 rushes for 1,107 years and 28 TDs.

Remarkably, Samuels had only one fumble (freshman year) in 383 offensive touches. Being 225 Ibs., with good speed and great hands makes him a viable option in the red zone. Where the Steelers need to improve their TD to FG ratio.

He also has limited experience on special teams. According to sport-reference.com, Samuels returned 12 Wolfpack punts and kickoffs for an average of 19.2 yards. It is no stretch to think that Samuels could transition into the kick returning duties as a rookie. Doing so, would limit the exposure to injury for players like Antonio Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Samuels’ presence means the Steelers can reduce Le’Veon Bell’s workload. Particularly, in the passing game. This is important since Bell is injury prone. If Bell signs a long-term deal, Samuels gives him a chance to rest. If Bell doesn’t sign, Samuels gains valuable playing experience. A win-win situation for the Steelers.

Samuels’ versatility also frees up other roster spots. Permitting the Steelers to keep extra players at positions usually needing additional depth (OL, DL and WR). In the NFL injuries are always a concern and having added depth is critical for success. Especially, this year where Chris Hubbard left via free agency and Jerald Hawkins is lost due to injury.

It’s a no brainer for the Steelers to keep Jaylen Samuels on the 53-man roster. His versatility demands 10 to 15 touches per game and, Big Ben can always use another weapon.

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